Two Worlds Collided (Ace Merrill)

Definitely Innocent

"This place is beautiful."

Even in the dark night, the sky and trees reflect off the water. It's silent, too, with nothing but a few birds and our steps creating noise.

"Yeah," Ace agrees.

I stare into the black water, wondering how deep it goes. Then I look at Ace. His eyes are focused on the river, the moon reflecting off of the surface and lighting up his face.

He truly is a masterpiece. The way he styles his pale blonde hair, the way his bright blue eyes shine even in the night... I examine his features. His long eyelashes, his nose that- oddly enough- I envy because it's cute. His pink, plump lips that look so soft and almost irresistible.

He looks at me, smirking. I drop my gaze at once, blinking a few times. I can't believe he just caught me staring at him.

"Like what you see?" He teases.

I giggle, looking up at him.

Whatever snarky response I just formed, it's gone. His face is much closer to mine than I thought. My breath stops and my heart flutters.

"Um..."

He grins and pulls away from me.

"Um? That's a real genius response, El. Really helps my self confidence."

I look at the water again, trying not to let him see my cheeks get red.

"I didn't mean to stare." Yes I did. "I'm sorry."

He waves a hand as if to dismiss the topic. "Oh, don't feel bad. I rather enjoy when gorgeous girls stare at me."

I giggle. "You've got to stop that."

He moves closer to me, and I look at him again. His eyes are held onto mine. I swear I could stare at his all day; they're the prettiest shade of any color I've ever seen.

"Stop what?" He asks. Half of his mouth curves up. "Saying it like it is?"

My heart stops for a second, and I have to remember how to breathe. I wonder if he knows the affect he has on people. On me, especially.

"Flustering me." My voice is barely above a whisper.

"What?"

I feel my face get hot again, and I blink several times while trying to calm my heart. It's rapidly increasing.

"Flustering me," I repeat, a little louder.

He laughs, looking down for one second before looking at me again. I notice his teeth are perfect. Is there any feature on him that's not?

"I enjoy flustering you, Eleanor."

I frown. "Why?"

I see his hand move toward me. It catches a loose piece of my hair that's moving with the gentle breeze. With a light touch, he tucks it behind my ear. I swear his touch leaves a shock or fire or something behind. My heart skips another beat.

"Because I find it cute."

I snort playfully, doing my very best to stay calm.

"Cute?"

He nods.

"Yes. You get flustered pretty easily, I've noticed. Must be because you're so innocent."

I roll my eyes. "I am not innocent."

He huffs. Slowly, he moves his hand to my cheek. It's warm and surprisingly soft. I can't help but lean my face into his touch.

Gradually, he moves forward. My heart is in my throat, pounding. I'm not breathing.

Then his lips touch mine. I was right- they're perfect. A little rough, but with the perfect amount of softness. The kiss is gentle, but he's pulling away too soon.

His eyes don't move from mine. I can't speak.

He studies my reaction, then grins.

"Yep, definitely innocent."